No dilemmas for Big Sam

04 August 2009 04:07

Viewed : 10

Sam Allardyce has insisted that choosing his starting XI for the opening game of the season will not be difficult.
Blackburn struggled at the beginning of last term but improved considerably following the appointment of Allardyce as manager and successfully avoided relegation.
Allardyce was pleased with how his men responded but has now stressed that past performances will count for nothing.
He has brought in new recruits and maintains that places are still up for grabs, but he only plans to pick those who are in good form when Rovers begin their campaign at home to Manchester City on 15th August.
"I don't have any dilemmas. We will play the team I consider to be the best XI against Manchester City, irrespective of what went on last season," Allardyce told the Lancashire Telegraph.
"What happened last season makes no difference to me, it is what happens this pre-season and what happens in the next two games and what is going to happen on that stupid international friendly week."
In other Blackburn news, Steve Kean has been named as the new first team coach following Karl Robinson's recent departure to Milton Keynes Dons.
Kean has previously worked as assistant manager under Chris Coleman at Fulham, Real Sociedad and Coventry and Allardyce is happy to have him on board.
"We had numerous applications for the first team coaching position and Steve stood out above the rest through his personality, experience and knowledge of football at the highest level," said Allardyce.
"We are very confident that he will become a key member of the team behind the team, as we drive things forward."
Rovers have also promoted assistant chief scout Martyn Glover to head of player recruitment.